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On the leached acid bark of trees (oak, alder and birch) in exposed upland areas, this is a small but prominent member of the epiphytic lichen flora. It has a grey-green thallus but is easily recognised by its tiny, white or ivory grey, stubby pycnidia rather like three-point plugs with the pins pointing outwards but with fluctuating numbers of ‘pins’ or branches (from one or two to five or more). It is unlikely to be confused with any other species of Micarea in Ireland. In Ireland, the species occurs in Counties Kerry and Galway.

Key characteristics

Thallus grey-green on strongly leached bark; apothecia grey, convex

Pycnidia distinctive; attached to the thallus like electricity plugs with ‘pins’ or branches (one to five in number), facing outward.